The next phase in the school choice wars

The church must help put partisanship behind and work for better education for all students.

Dec 15, 2023

In the wake of the Chicago Public School leadership's recent announcement to reevaluate its school choice policy, the conversation around educational reform in Chicago has once again ignited. As the CPS board considers moving away from selective admissions and enrollment policies, this pivot raises significant questions about the future of education in our city.

The AND Campaign recognizes the critical role that the church must play in this next phase of "school reform wars." It is essential for the church to engage deeply and thoughtfully in this conversation, advocating for reforms that serve all students, particularly those who have been historically marginalized, without falling prey to partisanship.

One of the most pressing concerns is the reality that was discovered by the Consortium on Chicago School Research at the University of Chicago Urban Education Institute: while school choice reforms have had positive impacts for many Chicago students, Black students have not benefited equally. This disparity is a crucial issue that must be addressed by both proponents and critics of school choice.

Supporters of school choice must be challenged not to be complacent in systems that leave Black families behind. It's imperative to ensure that reforms do not exacerbate existing inequalities but rather work toward inclusive solutions that uplift all students.

Conversely, those opposed to school choice must articulate how retreating from reforms that have shown positive results for so many students will benefit Black students, particularly given that these reforms were initially instigated due to poor performance in traditional systems. Simply reverting to previous norms, which failed a generation of students, is not a viable solution.

Beyond the debate on school choice, it is critical to recognize that the most predictive factor for a child’s academic success (regardless of race or income) is the active involvement of a parent. This fact places the family at the center of student success, not the school system. The church must be uncompromising on the message that any educational reform must consider and support the role of families in education.

The church in Chicago has a unique and powerful role to play. Churches are not only spiritual centers, but also community hubs that can mobilize resources, offer support, and provide a platform for dialogue. By engaging in this issue, the church can help bridge divides and foster a better conversation about educational reform.

This involvement, however, must transcend traditional ideological lines. The "education war tribalism" that has long gripped Chicago serves no one, least of all our children. The church must rise above these divisions, advocating for equitable and effective solutions that prioritize the well-being and future of all students in Chicago.

As we move forward, the church must be a voice for reason, unity, and progress. By engaging constructively with all stakeholders and keeping the focus on the needs of students and families, the church can play a pivotal role in shaping an educational system that truly serves every child in Chicago. Let this be a call to action for our faith communities to step forward and make a meaningful difference in the lives of our city's youth.

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